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Nino Tandilashvili: "From both a political and regulatory perspective, Georgia has taken significant steps in the field of waste management."
Mrs. Nino Tandilashvili, First Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, delivered remarks in Geneva, Switzerland, at the Ministerial meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiations focused on preventing plastic pollution.
Mrs. Tandilashvili emphasized the progress Georgia has made in the area of waste management at both the political and legislative levels, noting that the country has taken significant steps in line with the EU–Georgia Association Agreement, including the development of a National Waste Management Strategy and the gradual implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system.
The First Deputy addressed the existing challenges related to effective waste separation and underscored the importance of investment in the mentioned process.
“Like many other countries, Georgia is committed to reducing plastic pollution— a step that will improve environmental conditions and stimulate economic activity. However, overcoming structural, financial, and institutional barriers requires joint efforts. Therefore, we believe that a new international agreement aimed at preventing plastic pollution must include robust financial support mechanisms. Such mechanisms will help countries adopt new waste management approaches, improve existing infrastructure, and implement modern technologies,” stated Mrs. Tandilashvili.
According to the First Deputy Minister, with the active involvement of the business sector, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system is being gradually implemented for the collection and recycling of various specific types of waste.
“We have a firmly defined policy on sustainable development and the efficient use of natural resources. Promoting green growth, European integration, and inclusive development are key components of our strategic vision. We see this as an opportunity to create green jobs, reduce dependence on raw materials, empower local entrepreneurs, and modernize infrastructure,” emphasized the First Deputy Minister.
The Ministerial meeting in Geneva aimed to discuss national achievements and challenges in combating plastic pollution, share experiences, attract investments, and promote the effective implementation of national policies and approaches.
Organized by the United Nations and the Swiss government, the Ministerial brought together Ministers and high-level representatives from nearly 100 countries, including the Deputy Secretary-General of the UN, Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, and Jessica Rosvalley, European Commissioner for Environment.
The Ministerial, organized by the United Nations and the Swiss government, brought together Ministers and high-level representatives from nearly 100 countries, including Mrs. Inger Andersen, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme, and Mrs. Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment.